BASF teams with universities on materials research

German chemicals giant BASF AG launched a five-year research project to develop functional materials for the automotive, building and construction, as well as the energy sectors.

The project, called North American Center for Research on Advanced Materials, includes Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

BASF said academic partners will bring their knowledge in material sciences, modeling and formulation methods. About 20 post-doctoral positions will be created at the three universities.

BASF specified that the project will focus on micro- and nanostructured polymers with new properties, as well as biomimetic materials that emulate nature. Scientists will notably work on lightweight construction materials for wind turbines and automotive construction.

”We need the creative spirit of the widest possible range of sciences to develop solutions to meet the needs of a growing world population for clean drinking water, secure energy supply and improved quality of life,” said Christian Fischer, president of BASF's Advanced Materials and Systems Research. "BASF's market oriented materials and systems researchers, together with the outstanding scientists at the American universities, make up the ideal team for seeking out technically and economically viable solutions.”